Top 5 Places to Visit in Iowa
Midwestern U.S. state Iowa sits between the Missouri and Mississippi rivers and is known for its rolling plains and cornfields. The capital city of Des Moines boasts numerous landmarks, including the 19th-century State Capitol Building with its gold dome, the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, and the Des Moines Art Center. In Cedar Rapids, you can visit the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, home to paintings by Grant Wood.
Field of Dreams State Park
If you love baseball, Field of Dreams is a place to visit in Iowa. This iconic movie location is surrounded by cornfields and the famous farmhouse from the 1989 classic film. You’ll love taking pictures with the ghost player and running bases. And, you can take a baseball pitch for free! No need to bring your own baseball equipment. The site is free to visit and open daily between April and October.
If you like baseball and you love pop culture, you will love Field of Dreams State Park. This famous baseball field was built for the movie of the same name, which was released in 1989. It’s located in Dubuque County, Iowa near Dyersville. You’ll find it easy to find the park on a road trip from Chicago. If you’re traveling by car, you can also stop at the National Farm Toy Museum to view giant statues of Jesus and Mary.
While you’re there, you’ll also find the IF You Build It Exhibit, open May through October. This exhibit features information and history about the film and the movie itself. There’s also a vintage baseball uniform dress-up booth and a mural of the Ghost Players. In addition to the baseball museum, you can also take a stroll through the park’s beautiful, peaceful setting.
The movie was filmed in Iowa and the site is home to the filming site. After the filming, the Ameskamp family restored their farm and built a souvenir stand. In 2007, the Lansing family bought the other half of the property and combined the two farms. In 2012, Go the Distance Baseball purchased the entire property. There are many other reasons to visit Field of Dreams State Park.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
The Maquoketa Caves State Park in Iowa is an extraordinary place to visit and explore. This park is home to more caves than any other state park in the Midwest. The hiking trails here are breathtakingly beautiful and provide an adventurous experience. Highlights include the Natural Bridge, which stands 50 feet above Raccoon Creek. Another must-see sight is the 17-ton Balanced Rock. No matter what season you visit, you’ll enjoy the beauty of this state park.
If you love the outdoors, you’ll love the Maquoketa Caves State Park in Eastern Iowa. The park is one of the state’s oldest state parks, having been created in the 1860s. It features an interpretive center, which was previously known as Sager’s Museum, which educates visitors about the history of the caves and the geology behind them. However, it didn’t have a well-developed trail until the 1930s.
If you’re looking for something unique in Iowa, Maquoketa Caves State Park should be your destination. The state park offers six miles of hiking trails. Some of the trails wind through caves while others lead to their entrances. There are 16 caves in all – about 50% are walk-ins. The caves in this park were discovered in the 1830s and were originally used to store corn, tobacco, and even ice.
If you’re looking for a great place to have a picnic, Maquoketa Caves State Park is the perfect destination. There are two open picnic shelters, a kids’ playground, and a six-mile trail that leads to cave entrances and passageways. In addition to its beautiful setting, the park also has a seasonal interpretive center and a dump station for campers.
Okoboji
If you’re planning a vacation, consider visiting the town of Okoboji, Iowa. Located along the beautiful Iowa Great Lakes, this small town is filled with water activities and state parks. Plus, there’s great food and entertainment to enjoy, too. If you’re looking for a fun family activity, try a round of mini-golf at Pirates Cove. If you’re looking for more than just a relaxing vacation, consider checking out the downtown arts and culture scene.
If you love lakes, you can’t go wrong with the Dickinson County Museum. Featuring a local history, this museum showcases Lake Okoboji memorabilia. There are also live animals, native gardens, playgrounds, and an art gallery. In 2015, the center opened an art gallery. It offers rotating exhibits and is a great place to see art. If you love boats, you can take a boat ride on one of the lakefronts.
If you’re looking for a relaxing trip, try biking or hiking through the city. There are plenty of trails for both. There’s even a 66-mile bike trail in the town! Check out Bike Okoboji for more information on biking trails throughout the area. The city also has many beautiful parks to explore. Elinor Bedell State Park, for example, features a playground and picnic shelter, while Gull Point State Park has several hiking trails and a nature center.
You can also check out the Arnolds Park Amusement Park, home to more than 30 rides, including the legendary “Legend” roller coaster. You can also check out the world’s fastest go-karts, as well as the Boji Falls log flume. There’s something for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents. The park also offers several attractions and events throughout the year.
Des Moines Art Center
There are plenty of great things to do in Iowa, and the Des Moines Art Center is no exception. The permanent collection contains modern and contemporary artwork that spans the 20th and 21st centuries. You can explore the museum’s collections without a trip, and if you need a place to stay while in Des Moines, you should consider the Hyatt Place Des Moines/Downtown. The Hyatt is also pet-friendly, and the nearby Des Moines Botanical Garden offers horticulture classes.
For culture, head to the Des Moines Civic Center, a world-class theater that hosts concerts, ballet, and opera. You can also participate in outdoor Yoga sessions and attend live performances by famous musicians. The theater has a large variety of entertainment options, from comedy shows to symphonies. It has a thriving shopping scene, as well as numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters.
For history buffs, the Des Moines Art Center is worth visiting. Founded in 1948, this state-owned art center features a world-class art collection and architecture from three renowned architects. The collection emphasizes contemporary art, with a number of internationally known artists represented. Visitors can also enjoy bicycle tours of the downtown area, and the Des Moines Art Center is just a mile from the Bill Riley bike trail.
If you are visiting Des Moines with kids, the Des Moines Art Center may be the place to go. The center offers one-day workshops, summer camps, and extended care for kids. Members enjoy a 20 percent discount at the Museum’s retail store, as well as other perks. For as little as $30 for students, you can become a member and enjoy all the benefits of the Art Center.
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
The University of Iowa Museum of Natural History is a natural history museum located on the University of Iowa campus in Iowa City, Iowa. Founded in 1858 by the Iowa General Assembly, the museum was first called the Cabinet of Natural History. Today, you can find a wide variety of exhibits on the museum’s extensive grounds. A visit to this museum will give you a better understanding of the state’s diverse natural history.
The University of Iowa Museum of Natural History has collections of all kinds, from animals to plants. The museum also houses fossils, anthropological artifacts, and education resources. There are exhibits that illustrate Iowa’s geology and history, as well as a Meskwaki Indian lodge and a Marquette-Joliet diorama. Visitors are welcome to take a guided tour of the museum, which can be booked up to one week in advance.
The UIMNH’s history mirrors that of other related institutions. In the 19th century, natural history museums emerged as centers of scientific research, with careers such as Calvin, Macbride, and Shimek. Paleontology and systematic biology flourished with the aid of extensive collections. However, during the twentieth century, there was a shift away from “natural history” studies, as cellular and molecular biology grew in prominence. As a result, UIMNH’s focus shifted from scientific research to public education.
Things to Do in Iowa
If you’re planning a family vacation to the Midwest, there are several things to do in Iowa. A Midwestern state, Iowa lies between the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. The state is known for its cornfields and rolling plains. Des Moines, the state’s capital, features gold-domed landmarks, such as the State Capitol Building. Visit the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, or the Des Moines Art Center, for art. In Cedar Rapids, the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art features works by Grant Wood.
Field of Dreams State Park
The iconic baseball diamond in Field of Dreams State Park in Iowa was once a working farm. It was also home to wooden bleachers, a white farmhouse, and lots of corn during the growing season. But when the farm was up for sale in 2010, the Chicago land development company was interested in purchasing it. The new owners wanted to turn the farm into a sports complex, bulldozing acres of corn to create parking lots. The Park was slated for demolition, but not before the property was purchased by a Chicago land development company.
Despite the fact that the new baseball diamond will be built in the same location as the original baseball diamond, Major League Baseball has yet to decide whether it will play on the new field. They would like to see how teams, players, and fans react to the idea of playing at the stadium. If so, the park could be a destination for high school state tournament games and the home of a minor league team. The park is an asset for both the town and the park, and it will help increase tourism in the area. It will also attract television and newspaper advertisers, and it will increase the overall value of the park.
The film’s location also has a place in pop culture history. Dyersville, Iowa is the location of the iconic movie Field of Dreams. It was featured in the 1989 film “Field of Dreams.” It is now a massive tourist destination, with celebrities frequenting the town. The new stadium will be similar to Comiskey Park and feature windows showing the cornfield in the background. The baseball diamond will be connected to the original field by a path.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
Maquoketa Caves State Park is a beautiful state park located northwest of Maquoketa, Iowa. It is part of the Jackson County Historic District and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It offers a unique look into the natural and man-made worlds. It is a must-visit for outdoor lovers and history buffs. There are so many things to see and do at Maquoketa Caves State Park that you are bound to be entertained for hours.
Whether you’re interested in geology or natural history, you’ll love exploring the Maquoketa Caves State Park in Eastern Iowa. One of the earliest state parks in the country, the park is full of history. The interpretive center, formerly called Sager’s Museum, provides detailed information about the cave formations and how they were formed. There’s a wash station available at the Interpretive Center for those who are looking to learn about the caves.
One of the best parts of Maquoketa Caves State Park is its vast network of caves. The park has more than a dozen different caves, ranging in size from small grottos to huge Dancehall Cave. The park has a six-mile trail system and several natural bridge formations. It also has restrooms, potable water, a playground, and a dump station.
At Maquoketa Caves State Park, visitors can take a guided tour of the caves. During the summer months, the park is open on weekends. Guided tours are available if you have limited mobility or want to avoid mud. To get the most out of your visit, book ahead. The park is open on weekends and by special arrangement. And don’t forget to bring your camera!
Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad
If you’re traveling in Iowa, you might want to take a ride on the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad. This railroad is located in Boone County and operates both freight and passenger excursions. For your Iowa vacation, you can also get a great view of the area from one of the railroad’s scenic overlooks. Read on to learn more about this unique train excursion. You can also book a group trip.
A trip to the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad & Museum will give you a chance to experience the history of railroads, and also get to ride a train. There are different train rides to choose from, including the Fraser Excursion train, a fun train ride, and a relaxing dinner ride. You can also join their special events and enjoy a meal or dessert while traveling.
The Boone & Scenic Valley operates on a portion of the Fort Dodge, Des Moines & Southern. Until 1983, the railroad was owned by the C&NW, which had a terrible reputation for abandoning the land it had acquired. In 1983, the Boone Railroad Historical Society bought the railroad’s segment, and since then, the railway has steadily grown in popularity. Excursions offered on the scenic route include a trip through the beautiful landscape of the Midwestern prairie.
The BSVY was originally founded in 1983 and acquired 11.3 miles of scenic track. Tourist train rides started in November. The depot building was completed in 1985. In 1988, visitors could enjoy the Thomas The Tank Engine excursion. The Thomas The Tank Engine excursion was a popular event for kids. Other exciting excursions included the Santa Express, Halloween Express, and Easter Bunny Express. In 2012, the railroad expanded its services, and the James H. Andrew Railroad Museum was constructed.
The Grotto
A trip to West Bend, Iowa, is not complete without visiting the Shrine of the Grotto of the Redemption. This Roman Catholic shrine contains nine grottos depicting scenes from Jesus’ life. These grottos are believed to be the largest in the world. Many of these grottos have a collection of minerals. You can even see a dinosaur fossil!
The Grotto is the largest man-made grotto in the world, which is also home to the world’s largest collection of precious stones. It was created by a German Catholic priest in the 1920s and has been maintained ever since. The museum also features a statue of Father Dobberstein holding a rock to the heavens for approval. It’s possible to visit the grotto without booking a hotel room in West Bend.
The Grotto is often referred to as “the eighth wonder of the world” and has been included on the National Register of Historic Places. The Grotto is also the subject of the Disney film, The Straight Story. The Grotto is open to the public twenty-four hours a day, and has been described as a “miracle in stone.”
There are many things to do in Iowa. You should visit the Grotto if you’re looking for a spiritual experience. It’s a landmark of religious devotion. The grotto was constructed after German immigrant, Father Paul Dobberstein, became ill with pneumonia and promised to build a shrine with precious stones in honor of the Virgin Mary if he recovered. After being healed, he began collecting precious stones and began building the Grotto in 1912. It took more than a decade to finish.
Figge Art Museum
If you’re looking for a unique and fun place to visit while in Iowa, then you’ve got to check out the Figge Art Museum. The museum was designed by Stirling Prize-winning British architect David Chipperfield. This was his first U.S. commission. The museum’s name is derived from the V.O. and Elizabeth Kahl Figge Foundation, which donated $13 million toward its construction. The Figge family is a local banking family of Swiss origin, with a history of supporting art and cultural enrichment.
Visitors can also catch special exhibitions at the Figge. Past exhibits have featured world war I posters, art from the Wizard of Oz movie, and Iowa sports. You can also check out the art-themed installation, “MAIZE,” which features recycled plastic containers used as cornstalks. The Figge is also a mainstay in the city’s annual art festival, which attracts thousands of people for three days each May. You’ll find everything from blown-glass art to spray-paint art.
The museum’s hours are currently 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Admission is free for children under four, active-duty military personnel, and members of the public. There are also docent-led tours available and a café on site. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, you can check out Big Picture in the House, which is a one-hour educational session for families. Visitors can also enjoy a delicious lunch at the Figge Museum Cafe and pick up a souvenir or two at the museum store. There’s even a Family Activity Center where kids can participate in activities related to pop art.
When you’re looking for things to do in Iowa, consider spending some time exploring one of the many museums in the area. There are a variety of fascinating galleries, exhibitions, and experiences to enjoy. From learning about how the world changed during the Industrial Revolution to experiencing Hollywood cowboys, you’ll be sure to have a blast here. The Figge Art Museum is among the many attractions in Davenport.
Best Sightseeing in Iowa
If you’re looking for the best places to see in Iowa, here’s a shortlist of the top things to see: Maquoketa Caves State Park, the Great River Road National Scenic Byway, Pikes Peak State Park, the Des Moines Art Center, and more. These sites are well worth a day or more of sightseeing. To make your trip to Iowa a memorable experience, start with a visit to one of the state’s largest cities.
Maquoketa Caves State Park
If you’re looking for some great state parks, consider visiting Maquoketa Caves State Park in Jackson County. This natural wonder is located northwest of Maquoketa. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and its 111 acres are a National Register historic district. In addition to the caves, the park has historical structures, including a large old schoolhouse.
Whether you’re looking for a great place to camp or enjoy a picnic in a picturesque setting, this state park in Maquoketa is an excellent choice. The park features hiking trails and picnic shelters, and there’s even a children’s play structure. Make reservations online for a campground site, as space is limited. And if you’re looking for a great place to bring your family, there are several educational programs.
Located on the eastern side of Iowa, Maquoketa Caves State Park is one of the oldest state parks in the state. The interpretive center is called Sager’s Museum and provides insight into the history and geology of the cave formations. A historic district was once designated on the east side of the park, and the trail to the caves was not developed until the 1930s.
Although visitors often focus on the caves, the park is also home to some beautiful natural structures. A large cave contains an exit about 1/3 of a mile from the entrance, but it’s not recommended for the uninitiated spelunk. There’s also a possibility of disease in the bats, which would cause the caves to be closed for a year.
Great River Road National Scenic Byway
The Iowa Great River Road is a three-hundred-mile route that parallels the west bank of the Mississippi River in the eastern part of the state. The road connects 10 counties, starting from the Minnesota/Iowa border in New Albin. The scenic byway stops at Effigy Mounds National Monument, where you can see remains of North America’s earliest civilization. In Dubuque, you can visit the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.
The Great River Road follows the Mississippi River, and you can see it almost continuously from the road. Its bluffs and dams create huge pools of open water upstream. Upstream, the floodplain opens up, revealing long, uninterrupted views of the valley. Along the way, stop at roadside overlooks for spectacular views of the Mississippi River. A map of the route includes descriptions of each stop along the way.
While traveling along the Great River Road, you will have many chances to enjoy scenic overlooks and breathtaking vistas. You can also watch boats navigate the Lock and Dam system. The Great River Road is lined with communities of all sizes. In addition to scenic overlooks, you can stop at historic sites and take a tour of commercial barges. There are many options for activities along the river, including boating and kayaking.
While you’re exploring the state’s natural beauty, don’t miss the scenic riverside towns that line its route. The Great River Road features scenic vistas, varied experiences, and convenient access to larger cities. A national scenic byway preserves the Mississippi River corridor and ensures that visitors will not be disappointed. It’s a great place to see wildlife and take in some history.
Pikes Peak State Park
A 500-foot bluff overlooking the Upper Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers, Pikes Peak State Park is one of the best places to go sightseeing in Iowa. This state park is operated by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and spans nearly 1,000 acres. Visitors can hike up the hill, picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful views. While in the area, don’t forget to take in the local art and history.
If you have a passion for nature, you must visit Pikes Peak, State Park. Located along with one of the world’s most important migration corridors, Pikes Peak is an excellent place to view migratory birds in their natural habitats. You can see shorebirds and raptors soaring overhead in fall migration. The park has been designated as an Important Birding Area by the State of Iowa.
The best sighting in Iowa is at Pikes Peak State Park. Its breathtaking scenery and natural beauty have made it a popular destination for photographers. You can climb the 500-foot bluff for sweeping views of the Mississippi River. The park also has a half-mile boardwalk to the Bridal Veil Falls. You can also hike the 11.5 miles of hiking trails, or camp in a campground.
Another popular place for sightseeing in Iowa is the beautiful Zebulon Pike, State Park. It has recently constructed a scenic overlook, making it a favorite spot for photographers. Besides scenic views, the park has picnic grounds and hiking trails, and even 70 campsites. Pike, an army surveyor of the Mississippi River in 1805, has a waterfall. You will not have to pay an entrance fee to enjoy this natural beauty.
Des Moines Art Center
If you are looking for some of the best art museums in the Midwest, then you should definitely consider visiting the Des Moines Art Center. This place features an amazing collection of paintings, sculptures, modern art, and mixed media. Established in 1948, this museum is a great place to visit if you are in Des Moines. Visitors will find many beautiful works of art here, including works from the Dutch, Impressionist, and modern American artists.
The Des Moines Art Center was opened in 1948 and is free for all to enjoy. This museum is designed by internationally acclaimed architects and is located on the western edge of downtown Des Moines. Inside, you can view works by 22 world-renowned artists, including Jasper Johns and Mark Rothko. There are rotating exhibitions and special events too, so you’ll never be bored. The Des Moines Art Center is the best sightseeing in Iowa.
The State Historical Museum is another place to visit if you are in Iowa. This museum is home to many fascinating artifacts and art and is a great place to learn about Iowa history. It also has special exhibits on Native Americans, early settlers, cinema, and the Civil War. You can also take guided tours here. They last about an hour and will give you a good overview of the city’s past.
Another place to visit in Des Moines is the State Historical Museum, which has more than 80,000 artifacts on display. The museum also hosts children’s programs, as well as special exhibits on African American civil rights. And you can’t miss the Jasper Winery, a pet project of avid gardeners. It was opened in a renovated warehouse in 2000. If you’re into wine and love art, the museum is the perfect place to visit.
Backbone State Park
If you’re looking for the best scenery in Iowa, look no further than Backbone State Park. The oldest state park in the state, Backbone State Park is located along the Maquoketa River in Delaware County. The park was established in 1919 and is three miles south of Strawberry Point. Backbone State Park is a great place for nature lovers and photographers alike. The park features numerous hiking trails and is open daily.
During your visit to Backbone State Park, take advantage of the state park’s 21-mile-long network of hiking and multi-use trails. The trails wind through shady timber and old-growth forest. They lead to Devil’s Backbone, the tallest peak in northeast Iowa. There are picnic tables, fire rings, and benches available throughout the park. During the summer, picnickers can enjoy the park’s lakeside concessions and outdoor playgrounds.
One of the earliest state parks in Iowa, Backbone State Park is located in Delaware County. The park’s name comes from the steep ridge of bedrock carved by the Maquoketa River. It has numerous hiking and biking trails and even a Civilian Conservation Corps Museum. The park also features a serene lake for boating. You can even hike across the Devil’s Backbone to explore its rock formations.
Whether you’re a nature lover or are interested in hunting, Backbone State Park is a great place to get out and enjoy the scenery. The trails are multi-use, making them ideal for everyone, and are ideal for families and people of all ages. Despite the park’s remote location, Backbone State Park is within easy reach of the city. The park is home to many wildlife species, including deer, turkey, ruffed grouse, and a variety of songbirds.
